MIT Research Revolutionizes Mental Support

Mark Twain famously quipped, "Of all the things I've lost, I miss my mind the most," capturing in one succinct statement a sentiment held by almost every older individual at one time or another. Now, researchers at MIT have discovered a new form of a simple nutrient that may have the ability to help us avoid the once inevitable reality behind Twain's remark.

Introducing Swanson Ultra® Magnesium L-Threonate featuring Magtein.™ Developed by MIT researchers, with seven patents pending, Magtein is the only form of supplemental magnesium shown to cross the blood-brain barrier and raise magnesium levels within the brain. By raising the brain's magnesium levels, Magtein promotes healthy neuronal activity for the support of healthy cognitive functions like recall, learning, decision making and spatial recognition.

Magnesium and the Mind

Magnesium is one of the most important minerals in the body. As a cofactor in over 300 different enzymes, it does a lot of things for many organs and tissues. Scientists have been aware of magnesium's role in the brain for decades, but direct evidence of its role in cognitive functioning has been elusive—until now.

In preliminary research published in the prestigious journal Neuron in 2010, MIT researchers screened every available form of supplemental magnesium and demonstrated in an animal model that Magnesium L-Threonate—and only Magnesium L-Threonate—has the ability to cross into the brain and boost magnesium levels. In their experiments, this increase in brain magnesium concentrations resulted in observable benefits in key cognitive measures.

The study was among the most downloaded papers in that year and has led to further studies both here and abroad, in both experimental and human models, to confirm its results and further our understanding of the connection between magnesium and the mind.

How Scientists Think It Works

Conventional brain-supporting supplements work by stimulating neurons that may or may not be a little "worn out." This can lead to a short-term benefit, but the results are fleeting and more servings must be taken to maintain the effects. Furthermore, constant over-stimulation can lead to neuronal burnout, eventually producing the opposite of the intended result.

Magnesium L-Threonate works differently. By boosting magnesium levels within the brain, scientists believe Magnesium L-Threonate helps neurons maintain a state of healthy sustained activity—neither over-stimulated nor under-stimulated. One could say that Magnesium L-Threonate helps keep the brain firing on all cylinders. And, scientists believe, by maintaining this healthy homeostasis, the brain can more easily respond to mental demands and perform cognitive tasks with less stress and fatigue.

For Students, Seniors and Professionals?

Researchers suggest that Magnesium L-Threonate could revolutionize the field of mental nourishment and help everyone achieve and maintain optimum cognitive function at every stage of life. One scientist we spoke to says it helps her perform complex critical thinking and maintain focus while drafting papers during those difficult times of the day when she usually struggles with fatigue and wayward thoughts. Students cramming for exams may find the same support. She also suggests that people whose occupations require prolonged concentration and attention—like executives and professionals, for instance—may benefit from Magnesium L-Threonate. Preliminary studies in aging animal models have shown that Magnesium L-Threonate helps revive cognitive functioning. Follow-up research is focusing on this area, with a variety of planned and in-progress human studies designed to determine if Magnesium L-Threonate might impact specific age-related challenges.

The good news is that we don't have to sit idly by while the scientists continue their investigations. Magnesium L-Threonate is available today for everyone—young and old—who wants to be sharp, clear and focused. Use recommendations are to take one veggie capsule in the afternoon and two in the evening with water to support healthy cognition throughout the day and to help promote healthy and productive sleep.

Notice: The products and information found on www.swansonvitamins.com are not intended to replace professional medical advice or treatment. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our dietary supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or medical condition. Individual results may vary. SwansonVitamins.com urges you to seek the advice of a qualified professional for any health concern lasting more than two weeks, and to share with your provider any information pertaining to your health and well-being, including the use of supplemental nutrition. Read complete terms of service.